What does it mean to "give thanks" to God in Psalm 118:28? Why the Psalmist Cries, “I Will Give You Thanks” Psalm 118:28 says, “You are my God, and I will give You thanks. You are my God, and I will exalt You.” The phrase “give You thanks” translates the Hebrew verb yâdâh, a word that paints a rich, action–filled picture. • Root meaning: “to throw, cast, or shoot”—conveying extended hands, open acknowledgment, and unreserved praise. • Common usage: thanking, confessing, praising, or celebrating God aloud (cf. Psalm 100:4). • Posture implied: lifted hands, spoken words, and a heart laid bare before the Lord. So, in Psalm 118:28, “give thanks” is not a polite nod; it is deliberate, wholehearted, and public exaltation of God. The Setting of Psalm 118 • Part of the Hallel (Psalm 113–118), sung at Passover and major festivals. • Recounts God’s rescue (“The LORD is my strength and my song,” v.14) and invites Israel to join the refrain, “His loving devotion endures forever” (v.1). • Verse 28 marks a personal climax: the psalmist moves from national testimony to individual commitment—“You are my God.” What “Give Thanks” Looks Like in Practice 1. Personal Recognition – Begins with relationship: “You are MY God” (cf. Psalm 63:1). – Thanksgiving flows from knowing Who rescued and redeemed you. 2. Spoken Praise – Yâdâh is vocal: declare God’s deeds (Psalm 105:1–2). – Gratitude voiced strengthens faith and encourages others. 3. Public Witness – Psalm 118 was sung in community; giving thanks rallies the congregation (v.24). – David models this in 1 Chronicles 29:20. 4. Physical Expression – Lifting hands (Psalm 134:2), singing (Psalm 147:7), joyful shout (Psalm 95:1). – Body and spirit align to honor the Lord. 5. Exalting God Above All – “I will exalt You” parallels “I will give You thanks”; the two belong together. – Thanksgiving magnifies God’s greatness while humbling self (Psalm 34:3). Scripture Echoes That Deepen the Meaning • 1 Chronicles 16:34 – “Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; His loving devotion endures forever.” • Ephesians 5:20 – “Always giving thanks to God the Father for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” • Hebrews 13:15 – “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that confess His name.” • Colossians 3:17 – Whatever you do, do all “giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” Living Psalm 118:28 Today • Recall specific acts of God’s faithfulness and speak them out. • Begin and end the day with verbal thanks (Psalm 92:1–2). • Use music, journaling, or testimony to declare His works. • Engage the body—lift hands, kneel, or stand—in reverent gratitude. • Let thanksgiving shape your attitude toward trials (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Key Takeaway To “give thanks” in Psalm 118:28 is to proclaim, with lifted hands and lifted voice, that the covenant-keeping LORD is your God, and to celebrate His steadfast love publicly, fervently, and continually. |
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